|
 |
Cleaning
vs. Finishing Hardwood Floors |
|
Q: Going
with the new trend, we removed all the wall-to-wall carpeting in our
home, built in the late fifties-we've lived here 25 years and ignored
the hardwood flooring that we knew existed under the carpeting. The
hardwood flooring is in decent shape. Some boards will have to be
replaced due to stains and water damage, particularly at the end of
the hallway next to a bathroom where a toilet overflowed.
My question is about the living room where there are dark areas around
some parts of the floor perimeter as if at one time someone had an
almost wall-to-wall rug. Someone suggested that those dark areas are
wax build-up. One product that I bought, Bruce Clean and Strip, had
no effect in changing the color. Can you tell me what might be the
cause of that darkening of the wood finish and if there is a remedy,
short of refinishing?
A: The color change around the perimeter could be caused from many
different things. The floor has been exposed to the occupants' lifestyles
for the period it was uncovered. Cooking, fireplaces, smoking, sunlight,
and household chemicals all can be contributing factors to the discoloration-not
to mention wood's inherent characteristic to "patina" (change
color with age).
Try using a very fine steel wool dipped in the Bruce cleaner you have,
work it in with the grain and see if it lightens up. However, for
best results, I would recommend a complete sanding and refinishing
to restore the floor's beauty and to help blend the appearance of
the original flooring with the new replaced pieces. I'm sure once
it's complete, you will consider it a worthwhile investment in your
home. Keep in mind that some of the discoloration will not come out
due to the porous nature of the wood. This also reflects the charm
of the wood and the history of the past occupants of the home.
If you want help with your project, visit http://www.servicemagic.com.
Let us match you with the ideal service professional in your area.
John Fuchs, Senior Carpet Inspector Carpet Warehouse Rancho Cordova,
CA
|
| |
 |
| |
|
|
